Replanting the Tree of Life

Coconut is an important multipurpose tree widely grown throughout the tropical regions of the world. However, its potential is threatened by the development of other oil crops which are increasing their production on the world fats and oils market. Against this background, the Technical Advisory Committee of the Consultative Group on International Research (CGIAR) requested the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to assist it in examining the feasibility of an international initiative on coconut research. This book reports the outcome of this study, written to make it accessible to the wider audience concerned with perennial tree crops.